Finalists Announced for 2026 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award

In Chillicothe, Ohio, on September 28, 2026, the finalists for the 11th annual "Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence" award were unveiled. Sponsored by Kenworth Truck Company, Fastport, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, this accolade honors military veterans who have successfully transitioned into truck driving careers.

This year's finalists comprise 11 semi-finalists, collectively known as the "Elite 11," who were honored at a dinner in Columbus, Ohio. The following day, the Kenworth manufacturing plant in Chillicothe revealed the final list of finalists and offered participants an exclusive tour of the factory. The semi-finalists participated in interviews with the award program and contributed their stories to the StoryCorps archive at the museum in Columbus.

Notably, this year's candidates are among the most seasoned in the program’s history, with six having retired from service at E-7 or above, including two Sergeants Major. Furthermore, 60% of the nominees were involved in U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs, with five of the Elite 11 currently serving as apprentices.

The finalists, listed alphabetically by last name, are Mohammad Arzola (U.S. Marine Corps), Monica Brooks-Buck (U.S. Army), Daniel Doss (U.S. Air Force), Brandon Ward (U.S. Navy), and Gary W. Williams (U.S. Army). Each of these servicemembers brings a unique background and a wealth of experience to the competition. The grand prize for the 2026 award is a Kenworth T680 truck, equipped with advanced features such as a 76-inch sleeper, PACCAR Powertrain, and various driver assistance systems.